Patents Issued in October 30, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030200639
    Abstract: A device and method for severing fasteners securing deck boards to pallet runners. A band saw extends across a table recess. The band saw is spaced above the tabletop aligning the saw between the deck boards and runners. The recess includes stop surfaces enabling the pallet to be pivoted from a horizontal position through a vertical position and then to an upside down position while the saw blade remains within the pallet for severing fasteners securing the opposite top deck board from the pallet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Ronald L. Waechter, Thomas A. Waechter
  • Publication number: 20030200640
    Abstract: The tool, which can be adapted to a bracket for fitting hands on a dial by driving them in, including a lower rod (11) which slides in a tubular part (13a) of an intermediate cylindrical element (13) compressing a spring (33) abutting against first tension adjustment means (43) and with an overlap that can be checked by a movement indicator (34) for a first force F1, said intermediate cylindrical element (13) itself sliding in the upper tube (15) compressing a second spring (35) abutting against second tension adjustment means (45) and with an overlap that can be checked by a movement indicator (36) for a second force F2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: NOUVELLE LEMANIA SA
    Inventor: Christophe Bifrare
  • Publication number: 20030200641
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cotter-mounting apparatus that, by engaging a pair of cotters with engagement grooves provided on the outer circumferential surface of an axial member, mounts the pair of cotters that fix a retainer for holding a spring to exert a pressing force to the axial member in a compressed state, wherein the cotter-mounting apparatus includes a retainer holding mechanism that holds a retainer having a pair of cotters incorporated, and is driven to be relatively elevated and lowered on the upper side in the axial line direction of the axial member; a cotter separating mechanism for separating the pair of cotters from each other over the outer diameter of the axial member roughly in the horizontal direction while pushing up the pair of cotters from downward and for holding the pair of cotters; and a cotter pressing mechanism for pressing the pair of cotters separated by the cotter separating mechanism from the outside roughly in the horizontal direction and causing the cotters to be en
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Hirata Corporation
    Inventors: Katsuyoshi Tachibana, Hiroshi Yoshida, Yoshio Kikukawa, Satoshi Ogata
  • Publication number: 20030200642
    Abstract: This is a business model algorithm and method and apparatus for the manufacture of brittle wire by the co-extrusion, or filled billet method. The invention involves a step by step method by which a billet can is specially prepared with a chamfered front end and a concave, collapsible front plate and a uniquely vented rear end. The result is a superior process in which bursting of the can and front end is eliminated resulting in superior product, increased yield, improved safety and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: L.E. Mann
  • Publication number: 20030200643
    Abstract: A machining center capable of fabricating and machining both ends of a work piece, such as a patio door sill. The machining center comprises two heads, each of which comprise several machining devices and tools which can perform the necessary machining operations on each end of the sill. Each head is configured to perform a cope, a back weep, a front weep, a screen weep on the sill, and to drill two holes in the sill. The heads are slidably mounted on rails so that the heads are able to travel in the direction of the length of the sill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: F-M Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd Frederick, Dale Len Marquardt
  • Publication number: 20030200644
    Abstract: Electrochemical test strip cards that can be singulated to produce electrochemical test strips are provided. The electrochemical test cards are made up of two or more electrochemical test strip precursors, where each precursor is characterized by the presence of a dry reagent housing reaction chamber bounded by opposing electrodes. In gaseous communication with each reaction chamber of the card is an integrated desiccant. Also provided are methods of using the subject electrochemical test strips cards, as well as kits that include the same. The subject test strips and cards find use in the detection/concentration determination of a number of different analytes, including glucose.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: David Parkes Matzinger
  • Publication number: 20030200645
    Abstract: A spindle motor having a pivot which tip portion can easily be formed by a spherical surface having high precision, high hardness, the diameter of which can be determined as desired, the tip portion 6a of the pivot 6 is formed by cutting a steel ball used in a bearing or the like having any diameter. The pivot 6 having a spherical surface 6a is formed by fixing the pivot tip portion 6a to one side surface 6c of a substantially cylindrical shaft portion 6b. As a result, the spherical surface having a high precision, high hardness which diameter can be determined as desired can easily be formed at the tip portion 6a of the pivot 6.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: MINEBEA CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Rikuro Obara
  • Publication number: 20030200646
    Abstract: The method for manufacturing a spindle motor rotor hub of the present invention where a disk-shaped bulk is shaped by cutting a specified thickness of a round bar material, such as metal, perpendicular to the axial line thereof. This disk-shaped bulk is then cold forged and formed into a machining workpiece, which has approximately the shape of the rotor hub. The two ends of the machining workpiece are ground to form parallel upper and lower machining reference surfaces. The peripheral surface of the machining workpiece is then ground to form a peripheral machining reference surface. Finishing is accomplished by cutting and grinding each part of the rotor hub based on the aforementioned upper and lower machining reference surfaces and on the peripheral machining reference surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Rikuro Obara, Akimasa Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20030200647
    Abstract: All the electrode films corresponding to respective metal materials are laminated on a substrate beforehand, a first electrode film located farthest from the substrate is formed with a first metal pattern suitable for the first electrode film, and then the first electrode film is etched away so as to expose a second electrode film located lower than the first electrode film. Therefore, the second electrode film suitable for a metal material of a second metal pattern can selectively be plated, whereby the second metal pattern can be formed while optimizing the combination of its metal material and electrode film. Also, the second electrode film for the later step does not attach to the previously formed first metal pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: TDK Corporation
    Inventor: Akifumi Kamijima
  • Publication number: 20030200648
    Abstract: A racking apparatus 10 is provided for remotely inserting into and removing an industrial electric circuit breaker from a cell housing. The racking apparatus includes a housing having a base 12 and a frame 14 extending upwardly from the base. A Wheel structure 20, 22, 24 is coupled to the base to permit wheeled movement of the housing. A motor mount structure 32 is coupled to the frame for generally vertical movement toward and away from the base. An electric motor 34 is mounted to the motor mount structure. The motor has a shaft 35 and an adaptor structure 36 is operatively associated with the shaft. The adaptor structure is constructed and arranged to be coupled to a circuit breaker. Actuating structure 40 is associated with the motor mount structure to cause the generally vertical movement of the motor mount structure. A controller 56 is carried by the housing for controlling the motor and the actuating structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Chester Levi Greer
  • Publication number: 20030200649
    Abstract: A commutator tool head for engaging a commutator having a bore and having tangs surrounding the bore. The tool head includes a substantially circular array of circumferentially-spaced-apart and commutator-tang-bending pins. The pins are disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the array. The pins are longitudinally positionable to enter the spaces between the tangs to bend circumferentially unequally-spaced-apart ones of the tangs to achieve substantially equal circumferential spacing between the tangs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Steve P. Heitkamp, Taggert McGough
  • Publication number: 20030200650
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for attaching a slider to a zipper chain having cords with intervals of zipper teeth along a predetermined length of the cords separated by gaps is disclosed. First the zipper chain is pulled along a predetermined path. A gap in the zipper chain is then detected. Once detected, the zipper chain is substantially stopped. A slider is then held in place in the gap of the zipper chain. Once the slider is in place, resistance is provided as the zipper chain motion is restarted. This causes the cords of the zipper chain to tighten and attach to the slider as the zipper chain moves along the predetermined path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: YKK Corporation of America
    Inventors: Chester P. Dudek, Tomonari Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20030200651
    Abstract: A micrometer-scaled van de Graaf that may be used to supply electrical current to other micrometer-scaled or nanometer-scaled devices. The van de Graaf includes a moveable component that can oscillate between a charged particle source near a first protrusion and a charged particle drain near a second protrusion. Also, a method of transferring electric charge between the charged particle source and the charged particle drain by using the van de Graaf. Further, a method of manufacturing the micrometer-scaled van de Graaf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Gary A. Gibson
  • Publication number: 20030200652
    Abstract: A method for improving the EMI compatibility of the keyboard soft board is disclosed. A low-pass filter is installed on the scan lines of the keyboard soft board to remove high-frequency noise signals produced by the soft board circuit, achieving the EMC requirement. The low-pass filter is formed between the input terminal of the scan line and the touch pad. An inductance is selectively installed and between the touch pads. A capacitance is formed between the touch pad of the scan line and a ground network. The method of forming the capacitance is to form ground pads on the ground network corresponding the scan line touch pads. The method of forming the inductance may be achieved through a reversed U-shaped inductor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Bright Huang
  • Publication number: 20030200653
    Abstract: A connector press provides for learning a specified connector pressed position, adjusting a force based threshold, and simultaneously pressing multiple connector types into a circuit board. The force based threshold may be adjusted via a slider bar on a user interface. The specified pressed position may be learned by measuring and storing a position or force value, upon the user causing the press to press the connector into a circuit board. A total force based threshold may be determined in order to simultaneously press multiple connector types. The total force based threshold may be based upon quantities and pressing forces of each of the connectors types. Further, the press may provide near capacity pressing force, even with an asymmetrical load, by including linear guides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: W. John Ravert, Anthony A. Staub, Gary A. Hitz, Glenn J. Pontius
  • Publication number: 20030200654
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an electronic circuit component, comprises the steps of: (a) forming a first thin film circuit element on a surface of a circuit board made of an Si substrate; (b) forming a hole or trench from the surface of the circuit board through at least a portion of a thickness of the Si substrate by etching; (c) forming an insulating film covering a surface of the formed hole or trench; (d) adhering a dry film of photoresist to the surface of the circuit board, the dry film capping an opening of the hole or trench; (e) patterning the dry film; and (f) by using the patterned dry film as a mask, etching the insulating film. An electronic circuit component having through conductors and being less influenced by high temperature annealing can be manufactured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Koji Omote, Masataka Mizukoshi, Osamu Taniguchi
  • Publication number: 20030200655
    Abstract: The present technique provides a multi-tile detector and a process for assembling the multi-tile detector using a flexible structure and intermediate electrical connections. The present technique minimizes edge gaps between adjacent detector tiles by coupling the detector tiles to the flexible structure and then flexing the flexible structure to close the edge gaps. Intermediate electrical connections, such as interlayer solder bumps, also may be used to minimize visible artifacts associated with tiling of the detector tiles. The present technique also may use a plurality of soldering materials having different melting temperatures to facilitate multiple soldering steps that are nondestructive of previous soldering steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLC
    Inventors: Habib Vafi, David C. Neumann, Scott W. Petrick, Jeffrey A. Kautzer
  • Publication number: 20030200656
    Abstract: A rocket motor ablative material (e.g., an insulation liner, bulk material, or the like) of this invention is formed from, as a precursor of the carbon reinforcement structure, one or more polyarylamides configured as a suitable reinforcing structure, such as a yarn, flock, and/or felt. Aramid yarns can be prepared by twisting/spinning aramid filaments, and/or by carding and yarn-spinning staple aramid fibers. In particular, the insulation may be used, for example, for a rocket motor nozzle or as a rocket motor heat shield subjected to conditions comparable to those of continuous filament viscose rayon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth P Wilson
  • Publication number: 20030200657
    Abstract: Method and device for forming a pulley are disclosed. The method of the present invention includes the first step to fix the plate working piece formed with the hole in the intermediate thereof to the first forming device; the second step to form the inner hub by rotating the plate working piece and pressing the upper surface of the plate works in drawing process; the third step to obtain the first semi-manufactured pulley by pressing the upper surface of the plate working piece and by forming the outer hub in drawing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Halla Climate Control Corporation
    Inventors: Dae-Kyu Park, Tae-Hyoung Eum, Jae-Hyeon Hur
  • Publication number: 20030200658
    Abstract: A caulked portion is formed by plastic deformation of a cylindrical portion which is formed at the inner end of a shaft member and is reduced in thickness toward the leading end in a diametrical outward direction. The force required to form the caulked portion is reduced, and the caulked portion is less susceptible to damage. Further, the force of the caulked portion for supporting the inner ring is ensured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Sawai, Takafumi Kuwano, Yoshifumi Hirano
  • Publication number: 20030200659
    Abstract: A replacement cartridge for a razor assembly is provided that includes a shaving aid body for use with the razor assembly. The shaving aid body includes an aperture disposed within a contact surface. The aperture is sized to receive a razor cartridge. Some embodiments of the present replacement cartridge include a base. In some of those embodiments the base includes one or more features for attaching the replacement cartridge to the razor assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Warner-Lambert Company
    Inventors: David Coffin, David Dombrowski, Glennis J. Orloff, Mark S. Peyser
  • Publication number: 20030200660
    Abstract: A razor assembly is provided that includes a razor cartridge with one or more razor blades, a shaving aid body, a handle, and a linkage pivotally connected to the handle. The linkage is connected to the razor cartridge and the shaving aid body in a manner such that the razor cartridge and the shaving aid body are moveable relative to the handle. Movement of one of the razor cartridge or the shaving aid body in a first direction causes the other of the razor cartridge or the shaving aid body to move in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction. As a result, the positions of the shaving aid body and the razor cartridge are continuously adjusted to maintain the contact surface of the shaving aid body approximately co-planar with the cutting edges of the razor blades within the razor cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Warner-Lambert Company
    Inventors: Andrew J. Pennella, Christine M. Ciccone, David Coffin, Thomas A. Follo, Brian W. Foster, Vincent C. Motta, Mark S. Peyser, Michael Sasuta, Paul J. Schaefer
  • Publication number: 20030200661
    Abstract: A cutter knife of which a blade connected to a slider is slidably held in an elongated sleeve member. The slider is provided with a first engagement protrusion and a second engagement protrusion located on a forward end and a backward end in sliding direction of the slider, one of which is to be inserted into a connection hole of the blade for connecting the slider and the blade. A distance from each of the first and the second engagement protrusions to the inner surface of the sleeve member when the slider is inserted into the sleeve member is set smaller than a distance between the connection hole and a back of the blade, and thereby the blade back is biased against the inner surface of the sleeve member for protecting the blade edge. When inserting direction of the slider is reversed, biased direction of the blade is also reversed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: OLFA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shoji Okada
  • Publication number: 20030200662
    Abstract: A head for a line trimming apparatus includes a body member and a detachable cover that may include a replaceable insert for connecting the head to a drive shaft of a line trimming apparatus. The body member includes opposed openings and a filament-receiving channel for inserting an elongated flexible cutting filament into the head for retention thereon. A spring-biased clamp is supported on the body member and is engageable with the filament portion residing in the channel to releasably retain the filament connected to the head. An actuator button projects through an opening in the body member and is operable to be pressed to cause the clamp to release forcible engagement with a filament so that the filament may be removed and replaced. In one embodiment the clamp and actuator are an integrally formed part and the filament projects through openings formed in spaced apart arms of the clamp member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Mark R. Moore
  • Publication number: 20030200663
    Abstract: A hand-sized, compact tool utilized to cut a ninety degree notch in the edge of sheet material, such as an acoustic ceiling tile, in one easy motion. The tool is designed with a rounded outer surface that is ergonomic and may be fabricated from high density plastic or metal material. The tool employs a pair of standard cutting blades having cutting edges oriented perpendicularly to each other. The tool's unique design assures safety in that the cutting edges are positioned inside a guide groove and are thus, unexposed. Comprising only three parts, the tool may quickly and easily be disassembled to replace worn or broken cutting blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Phillip K. Clanton, Samuel S. Clanton
  • Publication number: 20030200664
    Abstract: A pumpkin cutting apparatus includes a tubular shaft and a cutter releasably coupled to one end thereof, the cutter having a continuous side wall capable of cutting a pumpkin and retaining the cut portion. A plunger shaft extending through the tubular shaft and slides upwardly therethrough and extends through a top opening as the cutter cuts into a pumpkin. Once a cut is complete, the plunger shaft may be pushed back down into the tubular shaft so as to eject the cut portion from the cutter. The apparatus includes an elastomeric shell for surrounding and stabilizing a pumpkin. A transparent dome defining an aperture is selectively situated atop the shell. The tubular shaft and aperture have complementary threads so that the shaft may be rotated to force the cutter into the pumpkin, the cutter being rotatably coupled to the tubular shaft so as not to rotate therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Vicki L. Thompson, Tyler T. Harrell
  • Publication number: 20030200665
    Abstract: A blade handle for a surgical blade which allows the surgical blade to be easily removed therefrom is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Min Li
  • Publication number: 20030200666
    Abstract: A replaceable tip center punch system for eliminating the need for sharpening a center punch. The replaceable tip center punch system includes a handle member having an engaging head, and a tip member threadably attached to the handle member opposite of the engaging head. A threaded nut is preferably threadably attached to a threaded portion of the tip member for tightening against a shaft member of the handle member. A protective washer comprised of a resilient material preferably surrounds the shaft member adjacent the engaging head for protecting the hand of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth P. Baker
  • Publication number: 20030200667
    Abstract: Disclosed is a modular framing tool and a method for beam framing. The modular framing tool of the present invention comprises alignment members attached to a common body portion. In one embodiment, the tabs are permanently and rotatably attached with a locking mechanism. Alternatively, the alignment members are removable and selectively positionable. Additionally, the modular framing tool comprises a tool attachment that may be configured to join the body portion to form a T-Square, a framing square, or the like. A leveling apparatus may also be attached to form a large leveling tool. The method comprises attaching or extending the alignment members, receiving the first beam, outlining the alignment members on the first beam, and after removing the tool, attaching a plurality of beams at the locations outlined by the alignment members. The alignment members maybe configured with a width equivalent to the thickness of the beam member to be attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Mark B. Orton
  • Publication number: 20030200668
    Abstract: A hole center detecting apparatus for positioning the hole of a spool and a cord accurately by determining the coordinates of two points of intersection between the inner circumference of the spool hole and a virtual straight line to compute the coordinates of the center of the hole and by moving the cord according to the computed coordinates of the hole center. A straightness measuring apparatus for measuring the curvature of a cord automatically by detecting the coordinates of three longitudinal points of the cord. A measurement apparatus for measuring a residual torsion automatically by measuring the rotation angle of the end portion of the cord before and after clamped, electrically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Kinoshita, Yoshiki Mizuta, Takahiro Yamada, Shogo Ueda, Eiji Kudo, Yuichi Kimura, Yukio Sangawa
  • Publication number: 20030200669
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning the component parts of a drum assembly are disclosed. One aspect of the invention relates to tools for measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, the tools may include indicator tools for measuring the relative position of the component parts, as well as alignment tools for aligning the component parts in accordance with the measurements. Another aspect of the invention relates to methods of measuring and aligning the component parts of the drum assembly. By way of example, some methods may pertain to aligning the upper drum and/or the drum support of the drum assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Athan Corporation
    Inventors: George Athanasiou, Constantine Athanasiou
  • Publication number: 20030200670
    Abstract: A multifunction acoustic/audio assistant includes a hand-held device body, a ruler, and all observation device. A rear side of the hand-held device body is provided with a measure face defined thereon to measure an intersection angle of microphones. The ruler is mounted onto a side face of the hand-held device body proximate to the measure face in order to measure the distance between the respective diaphragms of the microphones. The observation device is mounted onto the hand-held device body to determine the sound dispersion area and remotely observe distant events. The different tools demanded by an acoustic/audio specialist are thus integrated into the hand-held device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Bing Ren Ching
  • Publication number: 20030200671
    Abstract: A sealed linear encoder for determining the relative position of a first object and a second object. The sealed linear encoder includes a scale unit arranged in a hollow body that is mounted to a mounting structure associated with the first object and includes a slot which extends in a direction of measurement. A scanning unit for scanning the scale unit and a carrier connected to the second object, wherein the carrier extends through the slot. Sealing lips arranged at the hollow body and abutting the carrier so as to seal the carrier and a cover form-fitted to the hollow body for covering at least the slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Josef Muller
  • Publication number: 20030200672
    Abstract: Systems and methods for processing a high-lactose aqueous fluid (HLAF), such as permeate from ultrafiltration of whey fluid, are described. The preferred process includes concentrating HLAF containing from about 1 to about 35% solids, wherein at least 50% of the solids are lactose, to form a concentrated HLAF containing from about 45 to about 65% solids; further concentrating the HLAF to form a highly concentrated HLAF containing from about 70 to about 80% solids; cooling the highly concentrated HLAF with a gaseous fluid to create a cooling, concentrating, crystallizing cascade to further concentrate the HLAF to form a partially crystallized HLAF containing from about 78 to about 88% solids; and drying the partially crystallized HLAF in an air-lift dryer to form a product rich in crystalline alpha-lactose monohydrate. An air-lift dryer having diverging sidewalls and methods of using same are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: A. Kent Keller
  • Publication number: 20030200673
    Abstract: A device for rapidly cooling a semiconductor wafer test/transfer machine. The device includes a body which is provided with an interior gas passage one end of which is connected to a source of clean, dry air or other gas by a tubing. In typical application, the body is rested on the cover of a semiconductor wafer test or transfer machine, typically above or adjacent to the chuck or other wafer holder of the machine, with the other end of the gas passage in contact with the cover. The air or gas flowing through the gas passage impinges against the machine cover and rapidly cools the chuck or other wafer holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Ltd.
    Inventors: Pao-Kun Liao, Wen-Tsai Su
  • Publication number: 20030200674
    Abstract: The invention provides a device for treating fabrics in a tumble dryer comprising: a reservoir for storing a fabric treatment composition and transfer means to expose fabric treatment composition from the reservoir to airflow generated inside the tumble drier and/or to directly contact fabrics in the dryer, thereby transferring a portion of the fabric treatment composition into contact with fabrics in the tumble dryer during a tumble drying cycle; characterised in that the transfer means comprises at least an inner flow control member and an outer flow control member arranged in series, wherein the flow control characteristic of the inner flow control member is greater than that of the outer flow control member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan John Fry, Uwe Hagemann, Steven Hayes Hayes, Colin Watt Kerr
  • Publication number: 20030200675
    Abstract: A series of interchangeable stackable intermediate core sole modules have mating interlocking post and hole connectors and mating hook and loop fasteners and edge ridges for stacking a series of the core modules. Footwear uppers have a conventional top foot accommodating structure and a bottom surface with mating components to interconnect with the core modules. Footwear bottoms have a bottom surface with conventional soles and have an upper surface with mating components to interconnect with the core modules. Interchangeable core modules vary in material, color, texture, style, shape, thickness, and other physical features for individualizing footwear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Howard M. Gross
  • Publication number: 20030200676
    Abstract: A series of interchangeable stackable intermediate core sole modules have mating connectors for stacking a series of the core modules. Footwear uppers have a conventional top foot accommodating structure and a bottom surface with mating components to interconnect with the core modules. Footwear bottoms have a bottom surface with conventional soles and have an upper surface with mating components to interconnect with the core modules. Interchangeable core modules vary in material, color, texture, style, shape, thickness, and other physical features for individualizing footwear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Howard M. Gross
  • Publication number: 20030200677
    Abstract: A complete energy absorbing system for a variety of items, including athletic shoes. To accomplish the foregoing, the invention utilizes a series of encapsulated springs that are always in a state of suspension. In the preferred mode, the encapsulated springs are conical in nature, providing the utmost in strength and support while preventing the springs from bottoming out upon impact. Such is a result of the unique stiffening of the conical spring during compression thereof. Importantly, as distinguished from the prior art, an encapsulating material placed around a plurality of conical springs prevents the springs from being continually placed in a stressed situation, thus maintaining their structural integrity. Such encapsulating material may be made of a polymeric or thermoplastic material, which conforms to the conical shape of the springs and their respective apertures, functioning to aid in the dissipation of impact forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Carl J. Abraham
  • Publication number: 20030200678
    Abstract: A midsole includes a thick plate-shaped or column-shaped cushioning portion. A plurality of grooves is formed on an outer peripheral surface of the cushioning portion. The respective grooves are helically formed around a substantially vertical line. The respective grooves are arranged substantially parallel with each other. A range &agr; in which each of the grooves is formed is larger than a range of 15 degrees around the axial line and is smaller than a range of 180 degrees around the axial line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Nishiwaki, Toshikazu Kayano, Shigeyuki Mitsui
  • Publication number: 20030200679
    Abstract: A shoe construction that includes a sole and an upper, wherein the sole and the upper together define a volume for receiving and protecting a wearer”s foot against external elements. There is a liquid impermeable bootie that includes an inner, upper liner that is attached to a sole liner. The inner, upper liner is preferably air permeable, moisture vapor transmissive and liquid impermeable and is located inside the upper. The sole liner is air impermeable, moisture vapor impermeable and liquid impermeable and is located above the sole. The sole liner is preferably, but not necessarily, inelastic. Materials that may be utilized for the inner, upper liner can include microporous membranes. Some of the types of materials that may be used for the sole liner can include inelastic, thermoplastic materials, fiber reinforced polymeric materials and nonthermoplastic materials. An alternative embodiment of the inner, upper liner is air impermeable, moisture vapor transmissive and liquid impermeable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Frederic T. Wilson, Clare King, Peter Bastianelli
  • Publication number: 20030200680
    Abstract: A shoe has a sole, an upper and a counter portion. The upper is securely connected to the sole and has a rear end defined with an opening. The counter portion is detachably connected to the rear end of the upper to close the opening in the upper. A fastener and a connecting device are respectively mounted on two opposite sides of the upper and the counter portion to connect the counter portion to the rear end of the upper. Accordingly, a wearer's foot in the shoe can be vented. Also, for a pair of tied shoes with the counter portions can be put on or taken off without tying or untying the laces. The use of the shoe is versatile and convenient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: David Chang
  • Publication number: 20030200681
    Abstract: A single use product tag configured for use with a filament fastener to attach the tag to a manufactured article, e.g., a garment. The tag comprises a housing having an access channel leading to an interior cavity. The crossbar end of a filament fastener can be inserted through the access channel for placement into the interior cavity. A closure device is mounted in the tag housing for movement from an open position to a sealing position to block the access channel so as to prevent removal of the crossbar end of the fastener and prevent the insertion of another fastener.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Susannah Chen-Li, Josiah To Sang Li
  • Publication number: 20030200682
    Abstract: A promotional viewer includes a generally rectangular housing which can be engaged to an enclosure containing a recorded entertainment piece, or may be formed as an integral part thereof. The front surface of the viewer is provided with viewing apertures aligned over a portion of a continuous film loop mounted on turning rollers within the housing and illuminated by ambient light collected by a mirror in a lateral opening in the housing. To shield the other ambient illumination paths each of the viewing apertures may be provided with erectable shields.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Andrade
  • Publication number: 20030200683
    Abstract: A signal flag, flagholder and storage handle that in its open configuration is used for signaling a taxi and to display a sponsors logo or advertisement, and in its closed configuration is stowed in a pocket, purse or briefcase. The device is designed to permit the user or sponsor to interchange made-to-order flags at their discretion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Bob Gailen
  • Publication number: 20030200684
    Abstract: A sign for a vehicle has a three-dimensional base equipped with an opaque surface coating, and a backside of the base is placed on and attached to a vehicle part. The sign is equipped with an indirect lighting device so as to allow recognition of the sign at dawn or dusk or in the dark.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Dr. Ing. h.c.f. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft.
    Inventor: Erhard Wolf
  • Publication number: 20030200685
    Abstract: A tensioning system for a sign mounted to frame, such as a billboard sign. A single tensioning cable is provided, having a plurality of movable hooks positioned at various intervals therealong. The cable is confined by pulleys attached to the frame and extends along one horizontal portion of the frame, then along one vertical portion of the frame, to one or more tensioning winches. The movable hooks are engaged with the rods along a corresponding horizontal and vertical edge of the sign. The opposite horizontal and vertical edges of the sign are affixed by stationary or fixed hooks to the frame. By tightening the cable with the tensioning winch or winches, the cable is pulled taut along the one horizontal and one vertical edge of the sign. There is no need for separate tensioning belts and devices, which are replaced by a single tensioning cable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: John D. Gibb
  • Publication number: 20030200686
    Abstract: A hanging sign is provided for displaying messages. The sign may include a pair of walls that face in generally opposite directions so that messages can be displayed in two general directions, and a hook for hanging the walls from a support, such as a handrail assembly or other stanchion. The sign also may be configured to hang from a door handle and include a single display panel angled to face a pedestrian approaching the door. The sign may have a cavity to provide for nesting of a plurality of similar signs. A method is disclosed for hanging a sign to provide information to pedestrians.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Rubbermaid Commercial Products LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Perelli
  • Publication number: 20030200687
    Abstract: A keychain assembly holds a plurality of keys thereon. The keychain assembly includes a panel that is fixedly secured to the key retainer. The panel defines a section having material printed thereon. The panel defines a predetermined thickness such that at least a portion of the material printed thereon may be removed by punching out a portion of the panel. This keychain assembly is an effective way to provide incentives to customers to have them return to a commercial entity. It provides a panel for advertisement as well as a panel of incentives. It is the incentives that keep the advertisement in the mind of the customer because the customer may not throw the keychain away if it is of value to the customer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Andrew Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20030200688
    Abstract: A merchandising system for product and configured to present information on an information containing article comprises a base having a front end and configured to support the product, a first panel coupled to the front end of the base, and a first retainer configured to receive the information containing article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Michael Richter